Carotid Triangle

trigonum caroticum

The carotid triangle is a subdivision of the anterior triangle bounded by the superior belly of omohyoid, the posterior belly of digastric and the anterior border of sternocleidomastoid. Here the common carotid artery divides into the internal and external carotid arteries, making it the best place to feel the carotid pulse.

Anatomical Data

Boundaries & Contents

Location	Upper anterior neck, in front of sternocleidomastoid.
Boundaries	Anterior border of sternocleidomastoid Superior belly of omohyoid Posterior belly of digastric Investing fascia as the roof
Contents	Common carotid artery bifurcation Internal and external carotid arteries and branches Internal jugular vein Vagus nerve Hypoglossal nerve Ansa cervicalis Carotid sinus and carotid body

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Gives access to the carotid vessels and nearby cranial nerves.

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The carotid bifurcation within this triangle is the site of carotid endarterectomy and of carotid body tumours. Pressure over the carotid sinus here can slow the heart, which is used therapeutically as carotid sinus massage but also explains fainting in carotid sinus hypersensitivity.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Carotid Artery Stenosis

Atherosclerotic narrowing at the carotid bifurcation, which can cause transient ischaemic attacks and strokes and may be treated by endarterectomy through this triangle.

Carotid Body Tumour

A slow-growing paraganglioma at the bifurcation that forms a pulsatile lump moving side to side but not up and down.

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